I’m a happy girl for two reasons – most of you can probably guess the first: Bill & Emma made the finale :-) The second? Leah & Tony did NOT make the finale, which I find myself even more thankful for after witnessing yet another night of Leah dancing like she’s made of glass. Did she do the steps and stay on-time? Sure. But I wasn’t excited or entertained by her dancing, and the choreography she was given wasn’t exactly hard-hitting or particularly challenging…which is funny, because the way she & Tony were acting, you would think they were dancing at a Nicole Scherzinger level of difficulty. But alas, the judges finally seemed to call attention to her cautious performances, and ultimately she got sent home. Darn, guys – I know you are all as disappointed as I am that we won’t get to see J.Lo & Chelsea Handler in the audience again ;-)

As for Maks judging – I’d say he was definitely much better than Cher, but maybe not quite as constructive as Julianne. Chalk it up to nervousness or whatnot, but he seemed to ramble a bit – then again, at least the rambling was mostly praise and support for the couple he was critiquing. And much like Julianne & Cher, he tended not to rock the boat a whole lot in terms of scores – there were a couple deviations here and there, but I don’t think they’re going to matter much in the great scheme of things. I know, Amber & Derek fans, you’re pissed about the “9” he gave them for their jazz – but really, it’s one point amongst 350 that were given out last night, and her score was near-perfect. Was it petty of him? Maybe. But is it going to affect the outcome of the competition? Likely not. I’m big into being selective about what I get upset about these days ;-)

On the whole, I think we got the best group of finalists we could ask for – we’ve got a high level of skill (Corbin), a high level of entertainment (Amber), a guy who’s really improved (Jack), and a funny guy that just seems to appeal to the masses (Bill). There’s a little something for everybody, and I feel like all the couples left genuinely like each other and there’s not an ounce of bad blood between any of them, celeb or pro. I’m calling this the “feel-good finale”, because it’s the first time in a long time (possibly EVER) that I don’t really care who wins – I’d be fine with any of the four walking away with the trophy. Sure, I’d love to see Bill hoist that trophy, but I know that it’s not likely to happen, and I’m just thankful that he’s gotten this far :-)

1.) Amber & Derek – I’m giving Amber a slight edge over Corbin this week, simply due to cleanliness – both of her routines were near flawlessly executed, with a lot of synchronization in her jazz in particular. I really enjoyed it, although I knew right off the bat that at least one of the judges (likely Len) was going to bitch about “too much sitting down” – to be fair, the opening section, as cool as it was, was really more of a hip-hop/tutting section than it was jazz, and I think that’s why Len just couldn’t really process it…even if he did think it was as cool and visually stimulating as I found it to be. But it was a clever way for Derek to keep Amber off those injured knees, so I appreciated it, and once they finished it they did move into some more traditional jazz choreography. I thought their Viennese waltz was very pretty, if not a tad repetitive – but then again, I’d rather take well-executed & repetitive over the “barely moving, dancing on eggshells” vibe I got from Leah & Tony. I still think these two will be one of the last two standing with Corbin, but I’m not really sure which direction the odds are going to tip in – I think it could hinge upon the freestyle.

2.) Corbin & Karina – Two potentially perfect routines from these two last night – but the first one seemed to suffer from “excited puppy syndrome” and I think they may have tried to jam-pack a little too much into their tango, as it seemed to get a little hectic & sloppy at times. Loved the theme and mood – but the execution wasn’t quite there. Several frame issues, a couple bobbles on some dips and and trick moves – I’m just hoping that they can resist the urge to pack too much into their freestyle, because I could see them having similar problems…and I think it really could come down to the freestyle this season. Their rumba was much better, and I’m thinking the slower pace allowed Corbin to really focus more on the technique and overall performance, which was beautiful & haunting. I love Karina’s rumbas :-) As I said before, I still think it’s going to come down to these two and Amber & Derek in the final two, and it may come down to who has the better freestyle – Amber may have the edge there by virtue of having Derek, but I think Corbin may have the edge in that he isn’t injured and can do a bit more than Amber. Will be interesting to see who comes out on top.

3.) Jack & Cheryl – As I was watching Jack dance last night, I found myself saying “I’m gonna be really, really disappointed if this guy does not make the finale.” And this is coming from someone that has rooted for Bill all season long – after Jack had danced his 2nd dance, I had resigned myself to the fact that I probably was not going to get both Jack & Bill in the finale, and was ready to forego having Bill if it meant Jack could stay, because he really has had a lovely journey this season. And the best part: Cheryl’s been there with him every step of the way. I seriously think Jack was what the doctor ordered for Cheryl – seeing her in tears last night after dancing with him showed me that she’s got a newfound investment in the show, but also that she does have feelings…feelings that had been hard to see underneath a perceived indifference I saw from her the past few seasons. But all that aside – I think Jack had a pretty good night last night. While his jazz wasn’t my favorite (likely because Jack is just downright MAJESTIC in-hold, and this was predominantly open work), he still looked really invested in it, and I did enjoy some of the lifts. His Argentine tango was the dance of the night for me – once again, Jack comes alive in-hold, and really seems to lead Cheryl; and those lifts were both creative and well-executed. Even his footwork was looking sharp and on-point…and I loved every moment of it :-) I think Corbin & Amber probably have 1st and 2nd place on lock this time, but I’m hoping that Jack really gets the chance to wow us with a freestyle to pull out 3rd place.

4.) Bill & Emma – What can I say about Bill & Emma that I haven’t already been saying all season? He just makes me smile when he dances :-) It’s not about technique or rhythm when I watch him dance – it’s all about how invested in the dance he is, despite any difficulties he’s having with the technical aspects of the dance. Was his cha-cha off-time? Sure. But it didn’t diminish my enjoyment of it. I actually thought his Argentine tango was kinda impressive, though – he had some nice leg lines and handled the lifts and the character of the dance well, and I have to commend Emma for some Derek-esque cleverness in choreographing a good portion of the dance around a chair, since Bill was fighting with a groin injury. I’m both shocked and thankful that they made the finale (even though I know the Rioters are a force to be reckoned with ;-)), and I’m actually really looking forward to what Emma pulls out for a freestyle. I think I read somewhere on Twitter last night that this is the first time since Lacey in season 7 that a first-time pro has made the finale – cool to see some new blood showing off their freestyle skills. I doubt Bill & Emma can hope for much more than 4th place, but at least we get to see them dance one last time and they get to say they’re finalists :-)

So what did you guys think of last night’s show? Did the right people make it into the finale?

Ultrasound sales specialist by day, semi-knowledgeable DWTS fan by night...with a smattering of hair & makeup enthusiast, occasional model, and crazy cat lady peppered in to make things REALLY interesting ;-) I might pee my pants in happiness if Donnie Wahlberg ever does DWTS - or if they ever use "Sunglasses at Night" as a paso doble. Check out some of my other work at pureamericasgottalent.com!

62 responses to "PureDWTS Season 17, Week 10 – Power Rankings Headed Into the Finale"

I don’t know if it happens on DWTS, but in Strictly in the UK the judges points don’t count in the final. Is that the same here? If so…Bill has a real chance!

I know I was a little negative on Bill around the time Christina went, but boy has he changed my opinion since! Really the turning point was when he got told he was safe in Cher week for me.

I want Amber to win and to be honest, I’m not sure I’d want it to be Bill, but I wouldn’t be angry if it was him. The reaction would probably make the season! I think he has a chance of making third, but probably not top two. Anyway, this is a guy who I thought was ABSOLUTELY the first elimination before the show started. So well done Emma, we’re now happy you didn’t take the SCD job because DWTS is your home :D

Thanks so much, Court. Just excellent again! And yep, I think the right four are in the finals this time. Ok, here are my thoughts and rankings…

1. TIE between Derek and Amber/Karina and Corbin (All Emmy worthy dances)Derek and Amber -
1st dance: Wow wow wow. My heart skipped a beat. This will go down as one of my fave dances of the season not to mention DWTS as a whole. I loved the hand sequences with the white gloves. I loved how different and quirky it was. Everything about this dance was so creative and entertaining. Also, I dare anyone to say that was an easy dance to do sitting down in parts of it because I don’t think it was as easy as it looked and with so much fun, quickness, grace. and style. I also can’t imagine what it was like to learn all of those hand sequences too along with all the dance steps and movement which made it more challenging and difficult and not easier like some haters were tweeting last night. To the haters, try it yourself and then we’ll talk. Just outstanding. 40

2nd dance: They blew me away once again. It was like a scene from heaven. They were like angels blowing in the wind. Just beyond amazing. 40

Karina and Corbin-
1st dance: Wow, so much, fire, power, and intensity. The choreography was out of this world. I love theatrical dances like this when they get into character and that they did. I also loved how Karina’s hair would fly in her face. Sexy and powerful stuff. 40

2nd: Ditto to the above. They were stunning again! So emotional, in a zone, and powerful. I agree with Carrie Ann. They took us to another world. 40

2. Jack and Cheryl -
1st dance: Like in previous weeks, I loved them again. There may have been a few spots that could have been sharper and a little tighter, but, for the most part they came out with a lot of energy and fire….and what’s more, they had a lot of fun. I loved Cheryl’s choreography again too. 36

2nd dance: I don’t know what I was expecting, but, I wasn’t expecting them to turn it up even more and as much as they did. Right when they came out and the violins began playing, I knew this tango was going to be extra special and that it was (it seems Cheryl never fails when it comes to Tangos). They were passionate, beautiful, and intense. What’s more, I think this was their best dance of the season yet. 40

3. Emma and Bill-
1st dance: There was poor leg work and timing issues all over. I was worried for them afterwards being it wasn’t a little cleaner. I also didn’t like their costumes (which made them appear kind of cheesy), but, as always, I still loved them. They were a delight out there and entertaining. 28

2nd dance: Being they had as many issues as they did in the first dance, I was expecting more of the same in the second dance. Not so. Instead, I think Bill danced his best dance of the season. They were compassionate and beautiful. …totally into each other, the characters, and the moment. It was also cool and refreshing to see him and Emma do a serious dance (brilliant move by Emma!). His technique was so much better too. They danced with the best of them and it ended up sealing them for the finals. 36

4. Leah and Tony-
1st dance: Once again I was reminded of how she still danced like a beginner and how there is never any fire, passion, or intensity. It was “too careful” again just like Len said. I loved it when Maks told them that it needed more emotion putting his friendship aside. It was good to see the judges being tougher on them. Another thing that bugged me is that they were dancing to a “Lady Gaga” song. A Lady G song calls for more theatrics and creativity. Can you imagine what Sharna, Karina, or Derek would choreograph to a song like that? Enough said. 30

2nd dance: It was just awful again and worst than the first dance. Everything was so stiff and I found myself bored. Finally they went home. 24 Now please TPTB, replace Tony with Henry, Gleb, or another new pro next season. Enough is enough.

Adding to Court, I loved this paragraph. I also loved what you said about Cheryl and her feelings. So true!

On the whole, I think we got the best group of finalists we could ask for – we’ve got a high level of skill (Corbin), a high level of entertainment (Amber), a guy who’s really improved (Jack), and a funny guy that just seems to appeal to the masses (Bill). There’s a little something for everybody, and I feel like all the couples left genuinely like each other and there’s not an ounce of bad blood between any of them, celeb or pro. I’m calling this the “feel-good finale”, because it’s the first time in a long time (possibly EVER) that I don’t really care who wins – I’d be fine with any of the four walking away with the trophy. Sure, I’d love to see Bill hoist that trophy, but I know that it’s not likely to happen, and I’m just thankful that he’s gotten this far :-)

I think this is the first time that I really don’t care who wins. I love all 4 pairs for different reasons and I think it’s going to be a really great finale for what each of the couples brings. It’s also the first season where I’ve been rooting hard for a certain couple or that I’ve really wanted one couple to NOT win.

The only thing I didn’t like about last night’s elimination is seeing Leah’s little girl crying when Mommy was eliminated….. Didn’t change what I have felt about Leah and Tony, but seeing her daughter crying was difficult.

And like others, I don’t really care who wins, any of them would be THE perfect winner! And, just making it this far shows all of them are True Winners!

As for Maks as a judge, I’m not sure if I really enjoyed it. He just seemed too careful, like he was verbally walking on egg shells the whole time, trying to not break any. Other than that, his reactions to Bruno seemed more like the Maks that I remember from his teaching-pro days, but even those seemed pretty restrained and careful. I would have loved to hear some constructive criticisms, and what each of the pairs need to improve for the finals…. NONE of them really got that last night.

Before the semi-finals, I wasn’t sure how the Plugged/Unplugged Challenge would turn out; but after everyone performed I was impressed, and pleasantly surprised. As for Maks as a guest judge, I was surprised by critique, but I still don’t care for him. No offense to anyone who loves him.

1. Amber & Derek: Talk about a huge step forward from last week. I absolutely loved their Jazz routine. It was full of pizzazz, technique, and entertainment. I still can’t believe that Maks gave them a 9 for it. As for their Viennese Waltz, I felt like I was taken into a dream that would never end. Going into the finale, she’ll need to come up with a kick butt Freestyle that will earn her a 30 and the MBT, and that might be possible with Derek as her partner.

2. Corbin & Karina: They had mix of good and bad last night. Their Tango was a bit scary at times, and they kinda looked demented during the dance. I guess that’s what happens when you dance to Fall Out Boy, lol. As for their Rumba, I was still in shock over how his hips were moving (a guy’s hips aren’t supposed to move like that, lol). Going into the finale, my only advice for Corbin would be to avoid the predictable, typical hip hop freestyle that every Disney star, who made the final, has done and lost. If he does something like his premiere Contemporary and Week 9 Jazz, then that could take him to the final two without a doubt.

3. Jack & Cheryl: That fact that he is a much better dance than his sister shocks me. His Jazz routine was far from perfect, it did seem a bit touch and go throughout, and he did look uncomfortable at times. Whatever he did wrong in his Jazz, he made up for with his Argentine Tango. He was definitely a leading man in this dance and he rightfully earned his spot in the finals. Going into the finale, Jack should probably do something slow and elegant for his Freestyle, since he is really good at the slow serious dances.

4. Bill & Emma: I’m still shocked that he’s made it this far. If someone told me Week 1 that Bill Engvall will be in the finals, I would have called them crazy. I thought his Cha-Cha-Cha was a bit of a joke, and looked more like 6’s than 7’s. He made up for his nonsense with the Argentine Tango, which was definitely his best dance. He had everything that Argentine Tango should be. Might I add how stunning Emma looked in her A. Tango costume. Going into the finale, he’ll probably go for quick jokes in the Freestyle and has the lowest chance of winning. He’s been that last one saved multiple times this season, and he might take 4th place overall. He’s almost like Bristol Palin in season 11.

With one more week left of the competition, the pressure is on for the finalists. I have no doubts Amber and Corbin will be the last two standing at the end, but I don’t want to jinx it. I’m still disappointed that Brant and Elizabeth are not in the final 4, but I’m okay with this group too. Best of luck to the finalists, and here’s hoping that the Freestyles entertain.

I actually thought Maks gave some good constructive criticism and pointers for the couples (I remember him telling Amber and Jack something they need to work on for the finale)

But all in all, last night may just be my favorite night of this whole season. (80% of it due to Leah FINALLY going home). Not even gonna comment on their dances because all I can say about both of them: BOOORING.

Corbin & Karina: His Tango was good, but not great. I agreed with Len that it felt too hectic and TOO full on. I partly blame the song but he did seem to get too excited about it. His Rumba was great though. Really liked it a lot. The story he mentioned in his blog about the dances being tied to each other … I didnt really get that … but whatever. I am looking forward to his dances in the finale. I can see him doing a killer freestyle but a tiny bit of me wonders “what else CAN he do!?” … just feels like he’s done it all already :P but I think he’ll be fine.

Jack & Cheryl : He just blew me away lasr night. All season long I was iffy about him and mid-season I found myself saying “I don’t get the praise… I don’t think he’s all that great”.. Tonight though was an eye opener for me. His Jazz, though not the greatest, was still very fun and at times it did look really good. His Argentine Tango though sealed the deal for me. After seeing that dance I just said “Thats it. This guy needs to be in the finals. He is SO good”. It was so sharp and so … awesome! . I am looking forward to his frestyle .. I am guessing it might be ballroom oriented since thats his forté.

Bill & Emma: I just love these two and I am happy they are in the finals. They deserve it for never giving up and working so hard every single week. His Cha-cha last night wasnt great but his Arg. Tango was, imo, MILES better than Leah’s. I am looking forwars for the FUN he is going to bring to the finals :)

Amber & Derek: I have watched their Jazz like 25 times already. It was just the dance of the night for me (maybe tied with Jack’s AT) . She was just AMAZING. And her V. Waltz did not disappoint.. so clean, so elegant, so pretty…. I really want her to win. I cannot wait to see her freestyle. I imagine it beinga lot of fun and very “Amber & Derek” :)

I definitely said YES! really loudly at my tv when Leah was announced as leaving. I think I felt more strongly about this elimination than I do about who wins next week:)

Mandy Moore’s opening number was great! And I actually really liked the plugged unplugged theme and wouldn’t mind if they do it again. Maks was just ok as a judge for me. Certainly not bad but he definitely seemed nervous and subdued and didn’t have too many constructive things to say. I wished for more of that.

Amber & Derek were great. One of my favorite things about Derek is how he really changes the style of his choreography to what fits his celeb best, more than most of the other pros. For jazz, I prefer modern/contemporary jazz (like he did with Kellie last season) but that is not Amber. Yes, of course the song can dictate style as well but still, Amber is much more suited to a high-energy, hip-hop-infused jazz that we saw last night. Loved it. And so glad Amber got to prove she can do soft and flowing in the VWaltz.

Corbin & Karina were great too. Not perfect in the tango but the choreography and energy for both was awesome and the moods they set were really cool.

I loved Jack’s Argentine Tango. One of his best dances of the season. I knew jazz wouldn’t be his strength. I am actually concerned about him for the finale. If he doesn’t get a ballroom first round dance that could be trouble, and then I don’t think ‘freestyle’ actually plays to his strengths. But we will see. He is just so lovable.

Bill’s cha cha was a bit of a mess but the Argentine Tango was the most well-executed content he has done in weeks. I have really enjoyed Emma’s choreography and creativity this season. When I saw the points between him and Leah so small I really thought he could do it and make the finals!

Leah & Tony were just what I expected. I give her she has improved lines and technical things this season. But it was just so dull and not very difficult. You need to be exciting this late in the competition. She still moves too small. Glad Maks mentioned this and didn’t sugar-coat for his BFF. Will never understand why Tony doesn’t bring ‘bigger’ performances out of any of his celebs. Yeah, again, their attitudes, particularly his, were not appealing last night. She would have benign better off with a different pro. But oh well, glad their sour faces won’t be in the competition next week.

Love the pros who made it into the finale. The “No-drama” pros and also really creative pros! I am just so glad too that Amber and Corbin both made the finals. No matter what the final placements are now, that is all I ask for, my favorites to at least make it there. I really wasn’t sure both would make it with the way this season has gone with eliminations. Amber and Corbin really should be the last two standing. I think it will definitely be down to a battle of the freestyles of these two couples to who wins the finale night dance-wise. Honestly, sorry Rioters, I don’t want Bill to win the whole competition…..but I will not be mad if he does. I do love him and Emma. I just prefer someone with a bit more dance skill to win. I do actually think it will be hard for Amber to win though because I think many people will be voting for a pro other than Derek to win, much like All-Star season. That isn’t fair to Amber, but it is just my opinion of what the average viewer mindset will be. I feel like the average viewer will go for the ‘best’ dancer (Corbin) or the feel-good/decent dancer (Jack) or the underdog (Bill) since they are all appealing AND it gives a pro who hasn’t ever won or not won in awhile a win.

I am curious if the scores of the top 3 from next Monday will carry over to Tuesday finale or not. If only the judges scores from the one dance Tuesday night count with the votes from Monday, that will be interesting. Will also be interesting to see if Afterbuzz addresses last week’s controversy and fan reactions this week.

I have to be honest, I haven’t been this excited for a finale in a long time. We will still riot loud for Bill. Do I think he will win? I hope so, I’d like him to but it’s ok if he doesn’t. Heck, I’m proud he’s made it this far.

Even if he doesn’t I’m good with whoever wins because all four that are left are deserving, worthy and likeable with a great attitude and they all work hard and try hard.

I not only like Cheryl again, I absolutely love her now. DWTS needs to give her more Jacks in the future because what we saw last night was a Cheryl I would gladly riot for any day.

That’s the thing about these four finalists. They all have had an amazing journey and winning the trophy would be a very amazing ending to all of them.

I’d gladly riot for them to call it a four way tie and just have the freestyles for entertainment value. But there has to be a winner, so whoever wins it’ll be awesome. ;)

Okay….I just saw The View. Tony and Leah. I want to slap Tony so hard. They explained they wouldn’t be dancing on the show because Leah is hurt. Something with her ribs. Tony says she has been hurt since week 5 I think he said, but then, of course, he says but unlike others on the show, we didn’t use that to get sympathy votes. Literally, I screamed at the tv screen. Is there somewhere I can write to this man? I truly feel like I need to tell him off. I know it would mean nothing to him but it would be SO GOOD to me right now!!!!! Thank you for letting me vent!!!!

I will be happy with any of the four…and I am actually looking forward to the finale and expect to enjoy it all – because as you and others have pointed out – there is a reason to root for each of these dancers!

A question and a comment:

Q: Have I missed the explanation of how the finale will work? Is it a one night finale? Two nights? Do we get to vote again – or were our votes from last night the final time for us to give input? Sorry – probably just missed this somewhere – but would love to hear how it is going to work.

C: I haven’t been a T&L fan at ALL this season…but when their Lady Gaga song started I cringed for them…it was the same song that Anna T and Derek used for a Macy Stars of Dance Paso…which was amazing and HOT! They had no chance of being amazing OR hot…hot mess being the closest they could have gotten…and they only rose to the level of MESS! I loved the song when I heard it for MSD – but only punctuated their poor performance, imo.

Yes Cheryl, Tony is much more annoying now than Maks! I never thought I’d be saying this! I just don’t know what his problem is! Hope they replace him next season with Henry or Gleb. Can’t take anymore of him.

Leah finally went home!!!! Thank you dwts!! thank you people anyone who finally realized she needs to go.

Anyway lol
I agree with you at this point I don’t care who wins now because everyone in this finale is amazing and don’t care who gets the MBT

Amber and Derek: Man did Amber get back on her game yesterday! the Jazz was a bit hip hop but they had jazz too and it was great to watch!! loved the V.waltz it ended the show perfectly!!

Bill and Emma: Love them and hes not the best dancer but his heart is there. He was hurt i felt so bad but he pulled through it and made me smile once again with his dances. And Emma congrats to her for making it to the finals in her first season as pro!! Love her

Jack and Cheryl- Think he is the underdog and could possibly win this thing. He improved alot in the past few weeks! I enjoyed his story and felt so bad but that makes me love it more hes fighting and showing people he can do it with MS.

Corbin and Karina- I felt that the first dance was alright kinda quick and the song was not working for me for the tango. The rumba was definitely better! Hes a very strong contender and think he might be in the final two.

I’m really happy that these 4 couples made the final. While I’m an Amber/Derek fan, I enjoy watching all of them dance. Jack has really grown on me. I think I’ll be happy with whoever takes the Mirror Ball, although I’ll be thrilled if it’s Amber and Derek. Really looking forward to their freestyle.

Agree with many here–like all the finalists and wouldn’t have negative feelings about any of them winning.

So happy Amber will be able to compete at 100%. She’s still my favorite this season but Jack’s really growing on me. I loved that tango last night.

Same season-long question carries over into next week–do Bill’s fans still have the potential to pull off another upset? There’s just no way of knowing. I’m gonna guess they’ve still got one in them, and if they do, the finalist most at risk of being eliminated is Corbin.

So, prediction–

4th place–Corbin
3rd place–Bill
2nd place–Jack
MB–Amber

I really feel like Amber and Jack is more of a toss-up, but gotta favor Derek to come through in a final.

I’m okay with any of the final 4 winning. I’m more so Corbin and Amber to win but Jack has me loving him. He’s just adorable for words and Bill bless his heart is trying really hard. I love that. So any of them winning is great to me.

I really don’t like to hate on anyone who is brave enough to try DWTS, but Tony and Leah made me like them even less last night, even though I didn’t think that was possible. Glad we have these four out of the last five for the finals, but would have enjoyed seeing Snooki do a freestyle. I’ll be fine with any of them winning.

I’m a bit confused by next week. I know our votes from last night, combined with the judge’s scores next Monday sends someone home on Monday and then we get to vote again next Monday. But Conrad said they will add the Monday public scores to Tuesday, after the freestyle. Does that mean only three couples get to do a freestyle on Tuesday and we don’t get to vote on them?

I really hope Jack takes it. He has such a lovely attitude and who knows what life has in store for him with his MS. I think Cheryl being his pro has been great for both of them. I never would have thought she could be so human tbh. Never mind the journeys each contestant has had thus far, Jack’s journey going forward is uncertain at best. Of all the contestants, I have loved getting to know him through the show. Wish him good luck next week!

Man, if Tony wins, he has to make stupid comments like “I heard we won by a landslide” and if he loses he has to throw the others under the bus. And he is supposedly the ‘gentleman of the ballroom.’ I really want Henry to take his spot next season.

Karen T (28), this is what I gather for next week. Freestyles are on Monday and all 4 get to do them. Yesterday’s votes and next Monday’s judges scores from judges pick dance and freestyle decide who leaves at the end of Mondays show, leaving 3 dancers in Tuesdays finale. Votes from next Monday night and scores from Tuesday dance(s) decide final placements first, second, third.

BUT the only question I still have, which I mentioned above, is whether the judges scores from Monday’s judges pick dance and freestyle carry over to Tuesday to help choose the winner from the final 3 or if the judges scores are wiped clean for Tuesday.

Agree with everyone, such a great final group and nice to have a season so full of heart and feel-good moments. I’ve missed that. Can’t wait for the finale and I’ll be crying whoever wins, except Corbin, so kinda hoping for one of the other 3.

My only wish for the finale is that the pros don’t get over-ambitious trying to create great routines that they put too much pressure on their stars. I honestly want to see all 4 come out and do a great dance that they love doing and we can love watching. A bit worried Karina will stress and overdo it.

Why does Tony still surprise me with his nasty comments? The show really needs to replace him. He must know most don’t believe he should have the all-star trophy so he is bitter and lashes out. He is the most delusional pro on the show. Sorry if my comments offended anyone. He made me angry.

I loved that opening number! I still miss the couples coming down the stairs, but I have enjoyed these dances and this was one of my favorites. I enjoyed the whole show last night and couldn’t be happier with the outcome.

Leah/Tony – Tony looked downright scary and mean during their first dance. Their second dance wasn’t much better. She barely moved and I found it boring. And when they didn’t get the usual gushing from the judges, they both looked pissed. Reality sucks doesn’t it? You were judged the way you should have been all season. So very glad they’re gone.

Corbin/Karina – I don’t know about the first dance. Just seemed way too intense for me, but that’s just my opinion. I liked the second one more.

Jack/Cheryl – I’ve said it before, but I will say it again. I would LOVE to see Jack or Bill win this thing. I do think Jack has a better shot. He has such heart and he’s worked so hard, like Bill, but his dancing is better. And when I saw Cheryl crying when they went to the bus stop, I teared up a little. It’s nice to see the human, nice Cheryl again. Loved his second dance too. He deserves to be in the finals.

Bill/Emma – I don’t know what else I can say about them that I haven’t before. They are a joy to watch and put a smile on my face every time they dance. His second dance, to me, was the best dance he’s done.

Amber/Derek – That jazz dance was superb! I could watch that over and over and never tire of it. Their waltz was beautiful. So glad she got a perfect score for it.

Like a lot of people have said, I’m also happy with the final four and will be happy with whoever wins, but I’m rooting for Jack.

Cindy I miss the parade down the stairs too. For a second after the opening dance was done, they cut to a shot of the stairs as they started to announce the couples. I literally jumped up and down on my couch in excitement thinking that finally they would have them go down the stairs. But nope, same old lame walk out from the side of the stage entrance. What a bummer.
C’mon, throw me a friggin bone and let them at least do it on the finale!

I have been indifferent about Bill & Emma this entire season, but last night, I thought their Argentine Tango was HOT! I thought it deserved at least one 9 or two.

Emma’s choreography was spot on and I loved the mood and arrangement of the song (actually, I think I loved all of the acoustic arrangements in the second round). As for Bill, did a good job with the entire routine start to finish, the lifts looked effortless, and dare I say he was kinda sexy in the way he handled Emma? ;)

Character-wise, I also think the two of them fit the typical storyline of the Argentine Tango very well (older, experienced man cavorting with a lady of the night).

Regarding Maks as a judge…On the one hand, it was nice that his mission seemed to be to make sure that the pros got a lot of credit for their work on the show. On the other hand, I was surprised that he didn’t have more constructive things to say…when you’re on that side of the judges’ table, I don’t think it’s acceptable to say, “you didn’t do…, but forget about it” or “who cares about…”

But more importantly, I think Maks’ judging stint showed that being at that table is not as easy as it looks. Sure, CA/Len/Bruno can drive us nuts, but I think the 3 of them have mastered the art of giving specific and useful feedback + being charismatic and entertaining. I think Julianne came the closest to having that package, but IMO, it would be hard to fill any one of the 3 Stooges’ seats. :P

people who keep saying that derek shouldn’t win again
it’s about amber i have watch the show for her
if you don’t like her or her dancing than that’s ok it’s your opinion
but to say that you don’t want her to win because of derek is unfair

I agree that the number of Derek’s MBTs should not affect the outcome – Amber is working as hard as everybody else, it should be about her dancing and not Derek. I know it is wishful thinking and a lot of people will certainly consider Derek as they vote in the finale – but I also believe that Amber can win – she has been amazing all season.

Just my opinion, I do love Amber, but I do not vote for her; however, I would vote for Amber if she were paired with other pro, like Tristan. Anyway, I do not think Amber would get votes and make this far if she was not paired with Derek.

I would love Bill to win. But like Cher I am just elated he got to the finals. I would be happy with any of them winning. If Bill does end up in the top three, who will go. Probably Jack. I have been extremely impressed with Jack and Cheryl too. Corbin has been on fire. Amber has done marvelously! Hard to really tell who will win.

People are going to vote how they’re going to vote, no matter how illogical their motivations might seem – and as long as there’s a viewer vote on DWTS, there’s no real “wrong” way to vote. Do I personally think refusing to vote for Derek’s partner just because he’s already won 4 times is kinda lame? Sure. But it’s not against the rules, and I’m not going to give anyone a hard time about doing it. Really and truly, I think I’ve learned this season more than any other that the minute people start to say “the show should be about THIS and NOT about THAT” is when you kinda start to lose touch with what the show is: it’s an entertainment program that’s part dance contest and part popularity contest. As I remember John saying a few years ago “The show is what the viewers make it to be.” People voting for their favorite pro is no more right or wrong than refusing to vote for a certain pro because they’ve already won, just like voting for the most likeable dancer is no more right or wrong than voting for the best dancer. If I’m going to call out people for telling me I’m “wrong” in voting for Bill, then I feel like I’ve gotta call out anyone that’s saying someone else is wrong for voting a certain way. It’s just a sparkly, glittery dance show, kids :-)

Ahh Court, thank you for injecting some wisdom for this glittery dance show that we all love. :-) I for one, usually vote for best dancer, ringer or not, since it doesn’t matter! This season more than others really showed that dance experience or just being a good dancer alone doesn’t guarantee you a place in the finals (or in Elizabeth’s case, the semis). That’s what I love about this show. Every pair has an equal chance to win on day 1. So vote people!

Yes if Amber were partnered with anyone else she wouldn’t have made it this far because she wouldn’t have Derek training and supporting her and tailoring routines that fit her as well as entertain an audience and make them love what they see and want to vote for it. And routines that build in momentum and difficulty as she learns more about dancing, movement and confidence from him each week. He’s just good and people need to get over their obsession with the idea that Derek just lives and breathes to get another trophy.

And when people say well, he is too good for the show, wins too much —- so then if he leaves the quality drops about 50% and there is no show. Complainers should suck it up, pick up the pointers and step up their game. An if they are good enough they’ll win You gotta be likable, a good dancer, be astute enough to be able to work with all body and mind types with different abilities to learn, a good teacher and sounding board for your partner, know your way around choreography that won’t bore people to death or change the channel have endless amounts or stamina and patience and endless ideas to roll with the circumstances. Yes a REALLY tall order for most to deliver. Derek Hough has EARNED those trophies and probably why producers don’t want to let him slip away and viewerss keep begging him to stay on the show.

I’ve never been more excited for a finale! All four couples deserve the trophy for different reasons. I think this is the first finale that I really don’t feel confident in saying who the final two are. As much as I’d like for it to be Amber & Corbin, I wouldn’t be surprised if Bill or Jack ended up being one of the last two left either!

I’m really gonna miss this season when it’s over. Well, at least seeing all the entertainment the final four have given us over the weeks.

Here’s my two cents worth. Yes, this is one of the best Final 4s in awhile. For me it actually represents the best of what DWTS started out to be. Novice dancers with some kind of name recognition learning how to dance; throw in a few assumed “ringers”, and then some totally off the wall competitor like Engvall and you have the best of all worlds to watch, and vote if you choose. DWTS would be wise to keep up this model. As someone noted above the best of this year’s pros also made it through to the finale. Good for them. Cheryl, it’s good to have you back much like the Emmitt Smith days. I’m excited for the finale and like most here, I don’t care who wins, I really don’t. I would love to see Jack & Bill as the final two, though.

I really enjoyed the show – lots of good dancing, some great dancing, and Leah went home!

My favorite dance of the night was Amber and Derek’s jazz, and then Jack and Cheryl’s A. tango. That might be the A. tango from her that I’ve enjoyed the most. Corbin’s dances were also great, as well as Amber’s V. waltz. I also thought Bill did a *great* job with his A. tango – probably his best dance all season. I’m just sorry that he didn’t get a nine – I would have been happy if he had been given just one. The less said about Leah’s dances the better – though she definitely did improve over the course of the season. I really think I would have liked her a lot better with another pro – in terms of what they showed to us, Leah and Tony brought out the worst sides of each other. I think Leah’s attitude would have been much better with Henry, for instance.

This (as many have been saying) is probably the best final four ever. I’m rooting for Amber to win, but I would be happy with any of them winning. I know many people are saying Corbin is going to win – my gut is saying he won’t. I’m not exactly sure why – it could be the combination of ringer backlash, the fact that no Disney kid has won, and I honestly think he might have the smallest fan base of the four who are left. It’s going to be interesting to see it play out.

Reminds me a bit of the Season 13 final, which I loved. And we have the same pros in this one too (plus Emma, definitely intrigued to see what she comes up with for a freestyle!)

On the topic of freestyle, I saw on the DWTS instagram that they’re doing the “super-size” freestlye…ugh, again? Didn’t they learn anything from Kellie and Derek last season? Funny, my favorite freestyles have not been “super-sized” :)

Additionally, there’s another instagram post stating “The finalists will be repeating some of their most iconic dances from the season”-but the dances they showed for each couple…I’m not sure I’d consider those to be their most iconic. I’d definitely have picked something different for Corbin and Bill, at least.

DWTS can’t make any claim to the this “model”, DooWop, unless you think they’ve fixed it completely. It’s luck. When this season started it was loaded with people who were very good dancers: Brant, Christina, Liz, Corbin, Amber. That’s five out of 12 dancers. That’s huge. Four of those you could claim have some form of experience, be it actual dance experience (Liz and Corbin) or just performing with minor choreo (Christina and Amber). They’ve had seasons like this before, and they’ve had seasons like this before where the majority of the “good dancers” got eliminated, leaving one or two good dancers and one or two “likeable” people. Jennifer Grey’s season springs immediately to mind. Brandy and Audrina were good dancers that got eliminated before their time, leaving Kyle and Bristol in the finale with Jennifer.

If anything, this season has had more really good dancers than any previous one – it’s pure luck (or fanbase) that lead to a finale with only one true ringer, one very minor ringer, a person who’s grown and the likable dude.

I agree with the majority of the comments that I have read about being pleased with the way this finale is shaping up. My problem is that because I like so many of the finalists I have also been happily splitting votes between Jack, Amber and Corbin all season and based on other comments I have read, I believe many people have been happily vote splitting. The issue now is deciding which one to vote for, which I am finding isn’t as easy as it sounds.

Since my kids seem to prefer Corbin’s dances, we will probably throw all of our votes to him, especially if he continues to throw his special ‘Corbin’ touches into his dances since that is when they enjoy his dances the most. However we are really torn as we would really like for Amber or Jack to win as well.

I think my main concern is that others may be just as torn and may decide just to not vote and let ‘fate’ make the decision – I have to admit that it is tempting. Realistically though, I think that this year the freestyle (which has clearly been the decider in several past seasons) will matter perhaps even more than past seasons.

Well,
After seeing Leah and Tony on the morning shows after they were booted off, I think it’s safe to say I’m really over my crush on Tony Dovolani. Sigh…

I think it was on The View when they came on and Leah couldn’t dance and Tony explained that it was because she had a broken rib since week 5. Fine, admirable. Until he said paraphrasing, “unlike the other contestants who milk their injuries……..”
Really? You’re a little to old for such immature behavior my former gentleman. The automatic implication being, well, I got it. What an immature jerk.
Bummed, really bummed. I know you’ve all been saying it for a long time but I didn’t want to believe, wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt.

Oh well. He used to be the voice of reason and yes, he really has turned into a bitter, older, d-bag to me. But heck, I saw the good until I saw it no longer.